Dubbed a champion of the squatters, Kota Damansara assemblyman Dr Mohd Nasir Hashim is not your average politician. He happens to be an acupuncturist, too.

The white-haired social activist and former academician is sort of a maverick in the local political scene, and the Party Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) chairman's strong beliefs and principles had often landed him in hot water.

No frills: Nasir believes in personal touch when dealing with people. Nasir was once detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) for 15 months during the 1987 Operation Lalang.

Despite the “minor” hiccups, Nasir was back on his feet as soon as he was freed and went on to take up acupuncture. However, venturing into a field traditionally dominated by the Chinese didn’t daunt him one bit.

“I was attracted to the holistic appeal of acupuncture. Later with good support from family and friends, I opened a clinic,” said Nasir, adding that he would not have much time for it now thanks to his new role.

His leftist ideologies might not sit comfortably with some but Nasir said he's all about fighting for the people.

He is known never to have backed out of a confrontation with the authorities, particularly with issues involving squatters, former estate workers and other marginalised groups.

Admitting that he is one of the reluctant politicians, Nasir said his main aim is to empower the people.

“I represent the people of Kota Damansara and I intend to go to them to find out what their grievances are, and what they want done”.

How much time to do you spend on the computer?

Maybe around two hours.

What kind of music do you listen to?

Those from my time, especially Boney M or Abba.

Are you into movies?

I am into action flicks.

What do you read?

I read a lot of spiritual and philosophical books. I am currently reading The Seals of Wisdom by Muhyiddin Ibn-al-Arabi.

Are you into English Premier League football?

I don’t have the patience waiting for someone to score but I make it a point to watch whenever Manchester United or Liverpool plays.

Your favourite sports?

Boxing and I was a boxing champion during my school days. I used to play badminton and tennis, too. But nowadays a good walk is sufficient for me.

Coffee or tea?

I am a Nescafe O person. Sometimes I have two to three cups a day and I can't seem to give up.

Got a nickname?

My grandchildren and some relatives call me To'Ki. When I was lecturing in UKM, my students used to call me 'boss' and I will call them 'gang' in return. Nowadays, everyone just calls me Nasir.

What is the gadget you can't do without?

My phone. It's funny but I am very attached to it since I save interesting quotes, notes and appointments in it.

What's your favourite food?

Sambal Tumis Udang. I prepare it myself but beware because the ingredients vary all the time. I also like to “christen” my dishes with fancy names.

You have a weakness for?

I adore children and I believe the feeling is mutual. Perhaps my resemblance to Colonel Sanders (KFC) has got something to do with it.

Do you have pets?

Fish. I have about 15 small fish. I enjoy watching them swim. It's a passion I inherited from my late father.

What car do you drive and how long have you had it?

Viva and I have had it for about a year. I am not into big and expensive cars.

Name an idol (dead or alive) you look up to and why?

Karl Marx for his ideas on socialism that revolutionised the world and birthed a generation of thinkers.

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Roles and responsibilities of councillors

Roles and responsibilities of councillors

As part of the local council administrative system, councillors carry these roles and responsibilities.

As a committee member who makes decisions on approval for applications like planning, development, and licensing. Yet at the same time their actions should not be contradictory and against the policy decided upon by the local council for the public interest.

To advice the local government on matters relevant to their expertise and profession

To represent the people and the local community in matters pertaining to their living condition at the respective local council.

As a mediator between the community and the local council and to serve as the patron for their residents association.

To relay the feedback and response given by the local community on the quality of service given by the local council.

To be policy and decision makers. To draw a set of local by-laws as a guide for administrative purposes in solving the local issues and on how to give best service to the people.

To draw the policy to determine the direction of the local council and the direction has to augur well with the state and central government’s policies and at the same time meet what the people want.

As spokesman for the local council to ensure that policies drawn at the local authority are accepted by the local community.

To get a response from the community if there is any abuse of misuse of power or funds by the local council.

To encourage public participation on activities and programs organised by the local council.

Appointment of the councillors

The Local Government Act 1976

Section 10 (1) - the local authority shall consist of the mayor or president and not less than eight not more than 24 other councillors to be appointed by the state authority.

residing in the respective local council

Have wide experience and knowledge in local government affairs

Achieved distinction in any profession, commerceor industry

Able to represent the interest of the community they are serving

Editor’s Note: If you have any comments or views on this issue of councillors, please write to us at metro@thestar.com.my.